Ontario Night Nosh

The Ontario Night Nosh is a warm, hearty dish perfect for the long, cold nights of the Canadian winter. With its origins tracing back to the harmonious blending of native Canadian ingredients and European cooking techniques brought over by settlers, this dish has evolved into one of Ontario's comfort food staples. Conveniently assembled from locally sourced produce, Ontario Night Nosh is an excellent representation of the area's rich culinary heritage.

Ingredients for Ontario Night Nosh

• Potatoes - 4 large
• Onion - 1 medium, finely chopped
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Ground beef - 500 grams
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Carrot - 2 medium, diced
• Celery - 2 stalks, diced
• Thyme - 1 teaspoon
• All-purpose flour - 2 tablespoons
• Beef broth - 1 cup
• Butter - 1 tablespoon
• Milk - 1/2 cup
• Cheddar cheese - 1 cup grated
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation Steps

1. Begin by peeling and chopping the potatoes into medium-sized chunks. Place them in a pot of boiling salted water and cook until tender, approximately 15 minutes. Use a cooking timer to ensure they don’t overcook.
2. While the potatoes are boiling, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Season the mixture with thyme, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir to coat evenly.
5. Slowly pour in the beef broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook until the sauce thickens, about 10 minutes.
6. Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, then mash until smooth. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese and season with salt and black pepper.

Assembly and Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture into an even layer at the bottom of a baking dish.
2. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the beef mixture and smooth out with a spatula.
3. Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes.
4. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake until the cheese is melted and golden brown and the dish is heated through, approximately 20 minutes. Use a cooking timer to keep track.
5. Allow the Ontario Night Nosh to cool slightly before serving.

How to Enjoy the Ontario Night Nosh

The Ontario Night Nosh is best enjoyed on a chilly evening with a gathering of friends or family. The rich flavors and comforting textures make it the perfect dish for communal dining. Serve it with a fresh, crisp side salad or steamed green beans to add a touch of light contrast to the richness of the dish. A full-bodied red wine or a locally brewed dark ale pairs wonderfully with this hearty meal, accentuating its comforting flavors.